17 Electric Bike Storage Ideas You Can Actually Use (Home, Garage, Outside)
Electric bikes, if not stored correctly, can endure permanent damage. However, when I started storing my electric bike with the right solution for my situation, it maintained its like-new condition. So, how do I store my electric bike?
As a general rule, electric bikes are best stored in a dry, cool environment, away from changes in weather or any moisture. Store your e-bike between 32-68F (0-20C). Store your e-bike battery separately from the eBike itself and only with half a charge.
Now you know the guidelines of storing an electric bike, but you might wonder what storage method is best for your e-bike and its battery. Keep reading to find out.
How Do I Store My E-bike?
Like most expensive gadgets, E-bikes should be stored in a dry, cool environment, away from the elements. The details of storing your eBike will vary depending on the climate in which you live, the type and weight of your eBike, and the storage solutions available to you.
Electric bikes can last up to 10 years if properly maintained and stored. eBikes may only remain in working condition for a little over five years if you neglect the basic principles of maintenance and storage. We have created an entire article on how long electric bikes last if you want to learn more about an e-bike’s lifespan.
Keeping your eBike clean and safe while storing will require a great deal of foresight. However, incorrectly storing your electric bike can lead to permanent damage to the frame, the motor, or the battery. Damage to any of these parts can cost a fortune in repairs or replacements.
Some things to consider before storing your e-bike for any amount of time include:
- Weather exposure
- Battery level
- eBike weight
- Cleanliness of the storage environment
Store Your Electric Bike Away From Weather Exposure
Suppose you store your eBike outside where it is subject to weather conditions. Rain, snow, or exposure to water can cause these parts of your eBike to freeze or rust, leading to lasting damage. Rust is detrimental to an eBike; it will never run the same way once it rusts. In that case, it can lead to irreversible damage to the frame or motor.
eBikes can last for about ten years if cared for properly, so to ensure your eBike lives a full life make sure to keep it away from any inclement weather. (Source).
Do Not Store Your Electric Bike With A Full Battery
If you want to store your eBike correctly, make sure you do not store it with a full battery. Storing an eBike with a 100% charged battery or storing it while the battery charges can cause the battery to depreciate over time. To ensure your battery stays in its top condition for as long as possible, only store it charged to about 50%.
Take Your E-bike Weight Into Consideration When Storing Your Electric Bike
If you want to store your eBike but aren’t sure how to store it, taking the weight of the electric bike into account is critical. You probably don’t want to hang your 70+ pound eBike on a ceiling mount over your car. When it comes to storage solutions for your eBike, you need to consider the weight of your e-bike and the space available to you.
Store Your Electric Bike In A Clean Environment
If you want to store your electric bike in your backyard shed, where you also do your DIY carpentry projects, you may want to think twice. Dirt and debris can lead to lasting damage to your eBike. So you’ll want to make sure the environment where you are storing your eBike is generally clean and not subject to dirt and debris. You will also want to make sure your eBike is clean before stowing it away.
How Do I Prepare My Electric Bike For Winter Storage?
As a general rule, to prepare your electric bike for winter storage, you should give it a thorough cleaning, take it to get a tune-up, remove the battery, and prepare a dry and mild environment for your electric bike.
Cleaning your eBike before storing it for the winter can make or break your electric bike’s lifespan. The accumulation of dirt and debris on your e-bike can lead to corrosion. If load-bearing parts of your eBike corrode, it can be dangerous (and not in a fun way).
Keeping your eBike free of dirt and debris in places like the frame, the motor, and even the chains, can ensure your electric bike will run smoothly come spring.
Here are a few products you can use to clean your electric bike:
| Price | Rating | For Frame | For Chains | Battery Safe | |
| Finish Line Ebike and Exercise Bike Cleaner Aerosol | $8.22 for 14oz. | 4.6/5 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Muc-Off Mox-904 Nano Tech Bike Cleaner | $15.88 for 33.8oz. | 4.7/5 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser | $6.96 for 10oz. | 4.7/5 | No | Yes | No |
After cleaning your electric bike, it might be a good idea to take it in for a tune-up before putting it away for the season. Instead of giving 2-3 months of dormancy to let a small issue spiral into a larger one, it will be better to store your e-bike knowing everything is in order,
Plus, many electric bike shops run specials for winter overhaul tune-ups, so take advantage of the savings!
How Do I Store My Electric Bike For The Winter?
As a whole, you can store your electric bike for the winter by using a waterproof cover, a bike rack, or a bike shed. Each method will protect your eBike from elements that may cause damage. The solution best for your eBike varies based on size, weight, and the size of your storage space.
When it comes to storage solutions for your electric bike, there are plenty of options, no matter your situation. For example, suppose you live in an apartment. In that case, you may choose to store your e-bike inside with a covering (waterproof may not even be necessary). A sheet would work, too, as long as you trust your neighbor’s bathtub won’t fall through your ceiling).
If you are a homeowner, you may have space in your garage for a bike rack or space on your property for a storage shed.
Let’s weigh our options here:
| Average Price: | Space Required(LxHxW): | Best Suited for eBike Weight Range: | Best Suited for eBike Size Range: | |
| Waterproof Cover: | $20 | 6FTx4FTx2.5FT(average eBike size) | Any | Any |
| Floor Rack: | $40 USD | 6FTx4FTx2.5FT(average eBike size) | Any | Any |
| Wall Mount: | $25 USD | 6FTx4FTx2.5FT(average eBike size) | Up to 65lbs | Small-medium |
| Ceiling Pulley: | $30 USD | 6FTx4FTx2.5FT(average eBike size) | Up to 100lbs | Any |
| Tent: | $50 USD | 6.5FTx5.5FTx2.6FT | Any | Any |
| Shed: | $300+ USD | Must be at least 6FTx4FTx2.5FT(average eBike size) | Any | Any |
How Do I Store My Electric Bike In My Garage?
In total, there are four ways to store your electric bike in your garage: with a waterproof cover, on a floor rack, on a wall mount, or with a ceiling pulley. The method you choose will depend on how much space you have in your garage and the conditions of your garage environment.
Floor rack
If you have a one-car garage, you probably have enough room to store your eBike on the ground using a floor rack. To use a floor rack in your garage, ensure nothing in the surrounding area is obstructing your floor rack, so you may come and go with your e-bike as you please. When storing your electric bike in your garage long-term with a floor rack, make sure nothing dangerous could fall or run into your eBike.
We recommend buying this Rad Cycle two-bike floor rack on Amazon.
Hanging
If you have a two-car garage, you might choose to hang your electric bike either using a wall mount or a ceiling pulley. Space can get pretty tight in a two-car garage, especially if both cars are parked inside. To save you some floor space, it might be in your best interest to keep your eBike off the floor.
If your electric bike is between 65 and 100 pounds, it is probably best to use a ceiling pulley, as long as your e-bike does not hang over your car. You might also need to consider the type of garage you have. For example, if you have a roll-up or a tilt-up retractable garage, you might not have enough ceiling space for your eBike.
If you cannot hang your eBike from the ceiling, a wall mount is a great option, too. You’ll want to make sure you can still move about your garage with your electric bike mounted, as it will protrude about four feet from the wall.
If you are looking for the best ceiling pulley to hang your electric bike, check out this Rad Cycle ceiling pulley on Amazon.
Waterproof Cover
If you work with wood or other materials that may cause an excess of dirt or debris, it will be in your best interest to get a cover for your eBike to protect any particles from entering its components. Otherwise, a garage should keep your eBike dry and safe from any inclement weather. Unless, of course, a tornado takes out your garage, but we can’t help you with that.
The method you choose to store your eBike in your garage will depend on your storage space.
If you plan on buying an e-bike waterproof cover, we recommend this Puroma cover sold on Amazon.
Is It Ok To Hang An Electric Bike?
On average, it is ok to hang your electric bike. However, when choosing between a wall mount or a ceiling pulley, note that most wall mounts can only bear up to 65lbs. So if your electric bike is on the heavier side, look into a ceiling pulley.
When hanging your eBike, you can either hang it by its wheels with a wall mount or by its frame using a ceiling pulley. The method you choose will not only depend on how heavy your eBike is but also on how fat your tires are. Keep in mind wall mounts can typically only hold up to 65lbs.
If you want to hang your electric bike but it is heavy, or it has fat tires, consider using a ceiling pulley system.
Keep reading to find out how to choose the proper storage method to hang your electric bike.
Can You Store An Electric Bike Vertically?
As a general rule, you can store your electric bike vertically from either the wall or the ceiling. When choosing the vertical storage solution that suits your needs, you’ll want to consider the weight of your eBike, its tire size, and the size and environment of your storage space.
Vertical storage solutions may be the only way you’re able to store your eBike with the space available to you. Still, this method of storage comes with some caveats. First, you’ll want to be sure you install your wall mount or ceiling pulley correctly. I don’t know about you, but I would spring for the extra cost of professional installation if it meant I could rest assured my e-bike won’t come crashing down.
Ceiling Pulley Systems
Many ceiling pulley users report they attached 2×4 planks to the ceiling of their storage space then affixed their pulley system to the 2x4s instead of attaching the pulley directly to the ceiling. This offers users extra security when storing their eBikes using a ceiling pulley system. It also allows more freedom to move the rig if the storage environment needs to be re-organized.
| Pros of Ceiling Pulley System | Cons of Ceiling Pulling System |
| Can hold heavy eBikes | Risk damage if not installed properly |
| Easy to operate (pulley system) | May require professional installation/further installation tools |
| Frees up floor space | More of a long-term storage solution than short-term |
Wall Mounts
Wall mounts are an excellent option for storing your electric bike. Still, it is essential to note the weight restrictions for wall mounts are a little more restrictive than the ceiling pulley system. While conducting my research, I found that most wall mounts can only hold up to 65lbs. While many eBikes fall well within this weight restriction, some do not.
Make sure you know the weight of your eBike before choosing your vertical storage solution, as that will likely dictate what is best for you.
Also, while researching, I found that to get your front tire on and off the hook, most wall mounts require you to turn the electric bike nearly sideways before it is stably mounted. So, you’ll need to make sure you have enough room on your wall to shift your e-bike sideways when hanging it and taking it from the wall mount.
| Pros of Wall Mounts | Cons of Wall Mounts |
| Storage solution for short term and long term (easy to grab and go) | Restrictive weight limit |
| Frees up floor space | Requires wall space for loading and unloading |
| Easy installation |
How Do You Store A Heavy Electric Bike?
As a general rule, a heavy electric bike should be stored on the ground. E-bikes over 65lbs should not be stored using a wall mount. They can still be stored using a ceiling pulley, but the heavier the eBike, the greater the risk you take when hanging it for storage.
There are many great floor racks on the market for storing your heavy electric bike. Of course, storing your eBike on the floor will require some space in your garage, apartment, or another storage area. Still, it will ensure your e-bike doesn’t have any fall-related accidents.
Let’s take a look at a few options for storing your electric bike on the floor:
| Price | Rating | Dimensions(LxWxH) | Number of Bikes | Tire Width | |
| RAD Cycle Mighty Rack Two Bike Floor Stand Bicycle Instant Versitile Pro Quality Bike Park | $39.68 USD | 4.5/5 | 30 x 25 x 30 inches | 2 | 2 ¾ in. |
| BIKEHAND Bicycle Floor Type Parking Rack Stand – for Mountain and Road Bike Indoor Outdoor Nook Garage Storage | $59.99 USD(price increases as number of bikes increase) | 4.8/5 | 24x2x15 ¾ inches | 1+ | 2.4 in. |
| CyclingDeal 5 Bicycle Floor Type Parking Rack Stand – for Mountain MTB and Road Bike Indoor Nook Garage Storage – 5 Bikes | $59.98 | 4.7/5 | 18.5 x 14.5 x 4 inches | 5 | 2.5 in. |
Key Tip: If your electric bike has fat tires, or tires 3” +, you may not find a floor rack that will fit the tires. Instead of storing it in a floor rack for your garage, keep it in a safe place with a waterproof cover.
If you are storing your heavy electric bike in your garage with a floor rack, it may be wise to get a waterproof cover for it, too. Especially if you have a small garage and people come and go with their cars, tools, or groceries. To keep your eBike dry and safe from dirt and debris, covering it with a waterproof cover will ensure your eBike will make it through the winter.
Don’t have room in your garage to store your electric bike? Keep reading to find out how to store your eBike elsewhere.
Can I Store My Electric Bike Outside?
As a whole, electric bikes should not be kept outside, exposed to the elements. Wetness, even morning dew, can eventually cause your e-bike to degrade, especially if you store it outside with the battery. If you are storing your eBike outside, use a waterproof cover and store your battery indoors.
While it is not recommended to store your electric bike outside for the long term, you may still do it if you take the necessary precautions. You should not keep your eBike outdoors subject to weather conditions like precipitation and UV radiation. These conditions can cause some pretty severe damage to your electric bike.
If you choose to store your e-bike outside, here’s how to store it properly:
Use a Waterproof Covering
Electric bikes should not be kept outside where they are subject to damage from the sun or rain. Using a waterproof cover will significantly decrease the dangers your eBike is exposed to when stored outside.
It might also be a good idea to check on it every once in a while to make sure your coverage is keeping water out and that your e-bike is still in the condition in which you left it. Try to check on it once a week if you choose to store it outside.
Can I Store my eBike Battery Outside?
As a general rule, you should never store your eBike battery outside—eBike batteries last longest when stored at room temperature or between 55-75F (12-24C).
While eBike batteries are made to sustain the average moisture of riding in the rain or snow, they are not meant to withstand hours of cold or precipitation. Therefore, it is in your best interest to store your battery separately from your electric bike, no matter where you store your e-bike. eBike batteries are sensitive to temperature and should only be stored at room temperature.
The battery for your electric bike should be easy enough to detach after each use and small enough to store indoors. This tip assumes your electric bike battery is removable.
Can I Store My eBike In A Shed?
As a general rule, you can certainly store your eBike in a shed. As long as your shed is dry and generally clean, you’ll want to make sure you choose the proper storage solution for the type of shed you have.
Storage sheds come in a variety of materials. But, generally speaking, eBikes can be stored in any shed you can find, as long as it promises to keep your electric bike clean and dry.
Let’s take a closer look at the types of sheds in which you can store your eBike:
| Material | Avg. Price: | Avg. Size(LxWxH inches) | Can it Hang eBikes Vertically? | Avg. Weight |
| Plastic: | $1000 | 9.75 x 45 x 20.25 inches | No | 360lbs. |
| Metal: | $300 | 67×37.4×72.5 inches | Yes and No (Only if it has built-in screw anchors) | 200lbs. |
| Wooden: | Prices vary, this is a DIY (do-it-yourself) project and the price of materials and expertise will vary based on your location | Varies depending on your needs | Yes | Varies depending on your needs, but is typically very sturdy |
| Brick: | Prices vary, this is a DIY (do-it-yourself) project and the price of materials and expertise will vary based on your location | Varies depending on your needs | Yes | Varies depending on your needs, but is typically very heavy and sturdy |
| Tent: | $150 | 74 x 30 x 65 inches | No | 15lbs. |
How Do I Store My eBike In A Shed?
As a whole, there are two ways to store your eBike in a shed: vertically or on the ground. The method you choose to hang your electric bike in a shed will depend on how much room you have in the shed and the material.
The option to store your e-bike in a shed may only be available to you if you are a homeowner or have a large outdoor property. There are several options for small sheds on the market, but sheds require a bit of space, no matter the size.
You can store your eBike in a shed in two different ways:
- On the ground
- Vertically
How Do I Store My eBike on the Floor of a Shed?
On average, the floor of a shed is safe enough to store your electric bike inside without needing to do anything but shut the shed door. You can buy a floor rack to store your eBike in your shed to assure you it won’t tip, but it is generally safe free-standing.
If you are storing several electric bikes in your bike shed, getting a floor rack might be a good idea. A floor rack will ensure each eBike is stable in its position, and you won’t have to worry about a (costly) domino effect.
If you are storing your electric bike in your shed and that is the only thing in the shed, it is generally safe to leave it free-standing. As long as your shed is leak-proof and you double-check that the shed door is adequately shut when you close it, your electric bike will be safe. It may also be a good idea to get a lock for your shed door, just in case.
“Don’t forget to service your electric bike before putting it away for long-term storage! Routinely servicing your e-bike is the best way to ensure it will last as long as possible.”
—Electric Ride Owner
How Do I Store My eBike Vertically In A Shed?
On average, there are two ways to store your eBike vertically in a shed: with a ceiling pulley or a wall mount. The option you choose will depend on the durability of your shed’s material, the weight of your eBike, and how much room is available in your shed.
Vertical storage solutions are generally an excellent option for storing your electric bike in a shed used for storing other things. However, you’ll want to consider the cleanliness of your shed before anything else. If you use your shed for woodworking or other hobbies that produce dirt and debris, get a waterproof cover for your electric bike, or do not store it in your shed.
To ensure your electric bike lasts as long as it should, make sure you make every effort to keep it clean and dry.
There are two different ways you can store your electric bike vertically. These methods are:
- Wall mount
- Ceiling pulley
Let’s take a closer look at our options.
How Do I Store my eBike in a Shed with a Wall Mount?
If you decide to store your eBike in your shed using a wall mount, there are a few things you should know first. You will need to consider the weight of your electric bike, the width of its tires, and the material of your shed.
Wall mounts cannot be used for eBikes weighing over 65lbs, as that is the weight limit on most wall mounts. If your eBike weighs over 65lbs, consider going with a different option.
While doing research, I found most wall mounts do not fit tires that exceed 3” in width. So if you have an electric bike with fat tires, you will not be able to use a wall mount unless you can find one specifically for fat tires.
Before purchasing a wall mount to hang your electric bike in your shed, consider the material of your shed first.
The types of sheds best suited for hanging your eBike vertically with a wall mount are:
- Wooden
- Brick
- Metal (as long as they have studs)
These types of sheds work because they are made of material in which you can easily drill the wall mounts and are sturdy enough to ensure your e-bike will not fall off its mount.
Wall mounts require drilling screws into the wall, and most plastic cannot withstand drilling. If your shed is made of flimsy material, like plastic, you may not want to hang your electric bike vertically at all. In addition, materials like plastic may not support the weight of your eBike.
If you have a metal shed that doesn’t have any studs, you should not attempt drilling the holes required to mount your eBike to the wall. Drilling into a metal can be a significant safety hazard.
Consider storing your eBike on the floor of your shed if your shed is plastic or metal.
How Do I Store My eBike in a Shed with a Ceiling Pulley?
On average, you should consider the weight of your eBike, the value of other items in your shed, and the height of your shed before storing your electric bike in a shed with a ceiling pulley.
Ceiling pulleys can be used for eBikes of up to 100lbs. Still, depending on the height of your shed, you should always consider the minimal risk that your electric bike may fall. While it is nearly guaranteed by most ceiling pulley companies that your e-bike will not fall, you always want to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
That being said, before using a ceiling pulley to mount your eBike, you will want to assess the value of the other items in your shed. Focus primarily on the things that will be below your hanging electric bike.
If your e-bike were to fall, would it fall on anything that could damage your electric bikes, like a pointed tool or a sharp surface? Is there an item of greater value your eBike could fall on, inflicting damage on both your eBike and your other valuable item? Before choosing this storage method, ensure that you assess the risks of storing your e-bike using a ceiling pulley and accommodate for said risks.
The last thing you should consider if you are thinking of getting a ceiling pulley to hang your eBike in your shed is the height of your shed. Again, refer to the chart above for the approximate sizes of sheds in which you can hang your eBike vertically.
Note: You cannot hang your e-bike in a plastic or metal storage shed using a ceiling pulley because, like a wall mount, the ceiling pulley rig requires drilling holes into the mounting surface.
Don’t have any outdoor space to store your electric bike? Keep reading to find out how you can store your eBike in a small area, like an apartment.
How Do I Store My eBike In My Apartment?
On average, there are a few ways to store your eBike in your apartment: free-standing with a cover, using a wall mount, or on a balcony in a tent. The method you choose will depend on how long you plan to live at your apartment, how much space you have, and the renter’s agreement you signed upon moving in.
Storing your eBike in your apartment can make your space seem significantly smaller. Still, it may be the only option you have. Depending on the type of apartment in which you live (studio, one-bedroom, apartment with a balcony), you have different storage options for your eBike.
Can I Store My eBike on My Balcony?
On average, you can store your eBike on your balcony. You will want to make sure your eBike is covered with a waterproof cover or parked in a bike tent.
Let’s say, for example, you live in an apartment with a balcony. Unfortunately, many apartments do not have balconies, so this storage method will not be available to you on average. However, if you have a balcony, you may have enough space to store your eBike in a bike tent outside.
This storage method makes the most sense for apartment renters with balconies with smaller apartments. With this method, you do not have to worry about what little space you have obstructed by your electric bike.
Using a balcony to store your eBike can also save you from risking your security deposit. On the other hand, mounting your eBike on the wall may cause you to risk your security deposit.
Can I Store My eBike on the Floor of My Apartment?
As a general rule, you can store your eBike on the floor of your apartment in an upright position. You’ll want to put a covering over it, preferably a waterproof cover, to be safe. Still, even an old sheet will be able to keep dirt and dust from getting into the eBikes mechanisms.
Storing your electric bike inside your apartment might make the most sense for you if you do not have a balcony or if one of the terms on your lease was that you wouldn’t drill any holes into the wall. Storing your eBike on the floor of your apartment is one of the most hassle-free ways to store your eBike, as long as you can still navigate through your apartment with ease.
You may want to consider a different method for storing your eBike if you have a balcony or your renter’s agreement permits you to drill holes in the wall. Storing your eBike outdoors or on the wall will give you more living space in your apartment and ensure no accidents happen that may cause damage to your e-bike.
Can I Store My eBike in My Apartment Using a Wall Mount?
On average, it is safe to store your eBike in your apartment using a wall mount, as long as both your electric bike and apartment are suited for a wall mount. You will need to consider the weight of your e-bike, its tire width, and the renter’s agreement you signed before installing a wall mount in your apartment.
If you live in a relatively small apartment but have the freedom to drill into the walls, your best bet for storing your eBike is using a wall mount. Using a wall mount will allow you to take up the square footage in your apartment with things that cannot be mounted, and it will keep your eBike out of the flow of traffic in your apartment.
Do not use a wall mount to store your eBike in your apartment if your electric bike is over 65lbs. Also, do not use a wall mount if your renter’s agreement doesn’t allow you to drill holes into the walls or if you do not have a space to easily mount and dismount your e-bike from the wall for usage.
How Should I Store My e-Bike Battery?
As a general rule, you should always store your e-bike battery separately from your eBike, at room temperature (60-70F/16-21C), with the battery charged between 40%-80%.
eBike batteries should be stored separately from the eBike itself to ensure it is stored at the proper charge level and is safe from dirt, debris, or wetness. For example, if you store your electric bike outside with a waterproof cover, in a shed or your garage, and the climate in which you live will be cold while you store your electric bike, you need to detach the battery from your eBike.
It is essential to store your electric bike battery with some charge, but not at full charge and never while charging. Storing your eBike battery at 0% charge, 100% charge, or on the charger for an extended time can damage the battery and cause it to not hold a charge for as long as it should.
You should store your eBike battery indoors, where you would feel comfortable charging your phone or other expensive gadgets. eBike batteries should always be kept indoors and at room temperature to ensure wetness, dirt, or debris do not travel into the battery’s mechanisms.
eBike batteries can be sensitive to temperature and quickly overheat or get too cold, so be sure to store your eBike battery at room temperature.
When storing your e-bike battery, it is best to place it inside a battery storage bag. We recommend using a Zee Lipo fire and explosion-proof storage bag.
How Do You Store An eBike Battery For Winter?
On average, when storing your eBike battery for winter, you should store it separately from your eBike, at room temperature (60-70F/16-21C), with the battery charged between 40%-80%. While storing your eBike battery through the winter, you will also want to check its charge semi-frequently.
To learn more about how to store your electric bike battery, watch this helpful video on “Electric Bike Battery Winter Storage”.
The suggestions for storing your eBike battery overnight or through the winter are generally the same. You should always store your eBike battery at room temperature with about half of a charge.
The only caveat to storing your eBike battery short term vs. long term is you’ll want to check on its charge every week or so. Letting the battery drop to 0 in storage and letting it stay at an empty charge can cause permanent battery damage.
Make sure to always keep your battery at half-charge when storing it.
If you are thinking about buying an electric bike, consider checking out our article “How Much do Electric Bikes Cost? (Your Bottom Line). This article will help you determine which electric bike fits your budget and needs.
